Torque sensor

ABSTRACT

A torque sensor for producing a torque-dependent pressing force. The sensor includes at least one input member and at least one output member. A power-transmitting element is arranged between the input and output members. The torque sensor can be utilized in a continuously variable transmission.

[0001] The invention relates to a torque sensor, a continuously variable transmission, as well as a method for controlling a torque sensor and/or for controlling a continuously variable transmission.

[0002] Torque sensors, continuously variable transmissions, as well as methods for controlling torque sensors and continuously variable transmissions are already known.

[0003] The invention is based on the task of creating a torque sensor with a different design, a continuously variable transmission with a different design as well as a different method for controlling a torque sensor and/or for controlling a continuously variable transmission.

[0004] In accordance with one particular aspect, the invention is based on the task of creating a more rigid continuously variable transmission with torque sensor.

[0005] In accordance with one particular aspect, the invention is based on the task of creating a torque sensor as well as a continuously variable transmission, which have a simpler design and ensure higher operational reliability.

[0006] In accordance with one particular aspect, the invention is based on the task of creating a method for operating a torque sensor and/or a continuously variable transmission, which can be conducted with little effort and high operational reliability.

[0007] The task is resolved with a torque sensor that displays at least one of the features that are explained in the following description and claims or are shown in the figures.

[0008] The task is furthermore resolved with a continuously variable transmission that displays at least one of the features that are explained in the following description or claims or are shown in the figures.

[0009] The task is furthermore resolved with a method for controlling a torque sensor or for controlling a continuously variable transmission with torque sensor that displays at least one of the features that are explained in the following description or claims or are shown in the figures.

[0010] The task is resolved in particular with a torque sensor in accordance with claim 1 or in accordance with claim 2 or in accordance with claim 3 or in accordance with claim 4.

[0011] The task is furthermore resolved with a continuously variable transmission in accordance with claim 34 or in accordance with claim 37.

[0012] The task is furthermore resolved with a method in accordance with claim 39 or in accordance with claim 40.

[0013] Preferred embodiments are the objects of the dependent claims.

[0014] The invention is resolved in particular with a torque sensor, which contains at least one input part as well as at least one output part as well as a transmitting element, which is arranged between that input part and that output part and which can at least be moved also in the radial direction. The transmitting element is arranged particularly in the axial direction between the input part and the output part of the torque sensor. The transmitting element can transmit power and possibly torque between the input part and the output part. Torque can be applied to the output part from the outside, wherein the transmitting element causes the output part to generate a pressing force.

[0015] In accordance with the present invention, the input part is in particular a component that is arranged in an articulating manner, and the output part is in particular a component that is arranged in a fixed manner in relation to a shaft. That, however, shall not limit the invention. In accordance with the present invention, the input part preferably consists of a disk-like component, as does the output part. The output part in accordance with the present invention may be coupled with a disk and/or conical disk of a continuously variable transmission or be designed as one piece together with it.

[0016] The transmitting element in accordance with the invention is particularly a component, which is arranged in a movable manner relative to the output part and/or relative to the input part. The transmitting element can have the design of a ball or roll body or expanding body or other design.

[0017] The driving power generated by the output part pursuant to the present invention should be interpreted particularly as a power, which is applied onto the output part and can be passed on to surrounding components and preferably has a linear direction.

[0018] The transmitting element's ability to move in the radial direction is designed in accordance with the present invention in such a way that the transmitting element can also be moved in the radial direction. Particularly in accordance with the present invention a feature is provided so that the transmitting element is additionally arranged in a movable manner in at least one other direction compared to the input and/or output part, particularly in the circumferential direction and/or axial direction.

[0019] The task is furthermore resolved with a torque sensor in accordance with claim 1.

[0020] Based on the invention particularly a torque sensor for a continuously variable transmission is provided, which can transmit torque in a frictionally-engaged manner. The power that is transmitted through at least one transmitting element between the input part and the output part contains a power component acting in the circumferential direction and a power component acting in the axial direction. The continuously variable transmission is equipped with sets of disks, between which torque can be transmitted in a frictionally-engaged manner through an endless, torque-transmitting means. The power transmitted then between the belt wrap device and the respective disk set and/or the respective disks also contains a power component that acts largely in the circumferential direction. The torque sensor is allocated to at least one of those disk sets. According to the invention, the power component acting in the circumferential direction for power that is transmitted between the input part and the output part of the torque sensor is proportional to the power component acting in the circumferential direction that is transmitted on the disk set allocated to that torque sensor between the belt wrap device and that disk set. The proportionality factor between those power components acting in the circumferential direction is preferably equal to 1 so that the power component transmitted between the input part and the output part in the circumferential direction is in agreement with the power component transmitted in the circumferential direction between the disk set that is allocated to that torque sensor and the belt wrap device.

[0021] The task is furthermore resolved with a torque sensor in accordance with claim 3.

[0022] In accordance with the invention, a torque sensor is provided, which is equipped with an input part as well as an output part and a transmitting element, which is arranged between that input part and that output part. The transmitting element is supported by a ramp of the input part and the output part, respectively, during the transmission of torque and/or power between those parts. Torque that is applied to the input part generates a pressing force of the output part.

[0023] For the purpose of torque transmission in the continuously variable transmission, the respective disk sets of that transmission are exposed to a pressing force, particularly an axially acting pressing force. As a function of the torque that is to be transmitted and possibly as a function of the gear ratio that is established during torque transmission, the necessary pressing forces, which are required to be able to transmit the torque that is supposed to be transmitted between the disk sets, are available for each of the disk sets. In accordance with the invention—both during a pushing operation as well as during a pulling operation—the same paths and/or ramps that are arranged on the input part and/or the output part are acting, as are the same transmitting elements that are provided on the torque sensor, wherein the deviation between the pressing force generated by the torque sensor and the pressing force on the respective disk set required for torque transmission is largely identical during a pushing operation and a pulling operation. Based on the invention, preferably a feature is provided so that during a pushing operation as well as during a pulling operation, with a given torque that is supposed to be transmitted and/or a given gear ratio, the same paths and/or ramps of the torque sensor are used for generating the pressing force, without the deviation of the generated pressing force being different from the pressing force required on the respective disk set.

[0024] The task is furthermore resolved with a torque sensor in accordance with claim 4.

[0025] According to the invention particularly a torque sensor is provided, where one or more transmitting elements transmit power between an input part and an output part of the torque sensor, wherein the torque load of the input part causes a pressing force to be generated on the output part and wherein the position of the torque sensor is not dependent upon the direction of the load, which is present on the torque sensor and/or on the continuously variable transmission allocated to that torque sensor.

[0026] A preferred torque sensor in accordance with the invention is designed in such a way and interacts with a continuously variable transmission in such a way that the radial position of at least one the transmitting elements is controlled as a function of the position of the belt wrap device. In particular, the torque sensor is allocated to a disk set of the continuously variable transmission, wherein the radial position of the transmitting element or elements is controlled as a function of the travel radius of an endless, torque-transmitting means on that disk set.

[0027] The transmitting element or elements of the torque sensor preferably assume the radial position that corresponds to the travel radius of the belt wrap device on one of the disk sets. In a preferred embodiment, one torque sensor is provided per set of disks, wherein the transmitting element or elements allocated to those torque sensors are basically arranged in a radial position that corresponds largely to the travel radius on the disk sets allocated to those respective torque sensors.

[0028] Preferably at least one transmitting element experiences restricted guidance. In a particularly preferred embodiment, restricted guidance of the transmitting element is effected by ramps or paths, which are arranged on the input part or the output part of the torque sensor.

[0029] Defined movements of at least one disk set of a continuously variable transmission or of an endless, torque-transmitting means of that continuously variable transmission are preferably coupled with defined movements of a transmitting element of the torque sensor. In a particularly preferred embodiment, a defined relative adjustment of the disks in a disk set of the continuously variable transmission, particularly in the axial direction, causes a transmitting element of a torque sensor to be moved at least also in the radial direction, in particular in such a way that an increase in the axial distance of the disks of that disk set causes the transmitting element to be moved radially inward and that a decrease in the axial distance of the disks of the disk set causes the transmitting element to be moved radially outward.

[0030] In a particularly preferred embodiment the radial position of a transmitting element of a torque sensor depends on the gear ratio in a continuously variable transmission that is allocated to that torque sensor, especially with a defined distance between axes of the shafts of the continuously variable transmission, between which an infinitely variable transmission process can take place.

[0031] Preferably at least one transmitting element of the torque sensor is moved along a ramp, which is arranged on the input part and/or on the output part of the torque sensor, in such a way that each radial position of the transmitting element is allocated exactly one defined position of the ramp and/or path.

[0032] The travel paths of two or more transmitting elements of a torque sensor are preferably coupled with each other at least in part, particularly via a cage, which may contain grooves. In a particularly preferred embodiment, grooves that extend basically in the radial direction are provided in such a cage.

[0033] A preferred torque sensor in accordance with the invention is equipped with a cage, which holds at least one transmitting element, as well as at least one ramp, which is arranged on the input part and/or output part of the torque sensor. In a particularly preferred embodiment those ramps interact with the cage and the transmitting elements in such a way that through a combination of the degrees of freedom that exist on the transmitting elements on the ramps on one hand and the degrees of freedom that exist on the transmitting elements in the cage on the other hand it is ensured that the various transmitting elements have the same radial position, respectively.

[0034] In a particularly preferred embodiment a ramp, and especially a ramp that is allocated to an output part of the torque sensor and along which a transmitting element can travel, is connected with a conical disk or arranged on a conical disk, wherein that ramp possibly has the design of a recess in the conical disk.

[0035] The output part of the torque sensor is preferably designed as one piece together with a disk of the disk set, which is allocated to that torque sensor.

[0036] The torque sensor is preferably equipped with a ramp system, whose ramps may have a constant slope.

[0037] In a particularly preferred embodiment the ramp system, and possibly the individual ramps or at least some of the individual ramps of the ramp system, has a constant slope, wherein it is preferably additionally ensured that the transmitting elements, which can travel, particularly at contact, between or at least along a ramp of that ramp system of the torque sensor, each take on a position in the radial direction of that ramp system as the one in which an endless, torque-transmitting means is arranged in the radial direction on a conical disk set that is allocated to that torque sensor.

[0038] The input part and the output part of the torque sensor and/or the ramp system are preferably arranged in such a way that they can move relative to each other, especially in the circumferential direction, and possibly in axial direction. In a particularly preferred embodiment, at least one transmitting element, which is arranged between that input part and that output part, is guided along at least one ramp during a relative movement of those parts. That ramp is arranged on the input part and/or the output part.

[0039] During a relative movement between the input part and the output part the transmitting element preferably is in contact with at least one ramp, in a particularly preferred embodiment with all neighboring ramps.

[0040] In a preferred embodiment, at least one ramp is arranged on the input part and/or the output part, respectively, of the torque sensor and/or the ramp system, wherein interaction of those paths with at least one transmitting element, and possibly with a cage, determines the travel path of the transmitting element or elements during a relative movement of those ramps.

[0041] The lengthwise direction of at least one ramp that is provided on the input part and/or on the output part of the torque sensor preferably extends also in the radial direction in each position of that ramp. In a preferred embodiment, the lengthwise direction of the ramp extends in such a way that basically no areas exists that run only in the circumferential direction.

[0042] In a particularly preferred embodiment, at least one ramp of the torque sensor has a curved design. Preferably at least one ramp or exactly one curved ramp is provided both on the input part and on the output part. In a preferred embodiment, a ramp that is arranged on the input part and/or on the output part has a spiral design. A ramp that is arranged on the input part and/or on the output part preferably extends from an area that is arranged largely radially in the center of that input part and/or that output part outward in a curved and/or spiral shaped manner, clockwise or counterclockwise. The curved ramp preferably has a constant bending direction, i.e. is continuously left-curved or continuously right-curved. Paths, which are left-curved in certain sections and right-curved in certain other sections, are also preferred.

[0043] In a preferred embodiment, the (partial) ramp system that is provided on the input part has a design that is identical to that of the (partial) ramp system provided on the output part when viewed from above. In a particularly preferred embodiment a (partial) ramp system that is provided on the input part has a design that is different from the (partial) ramp system that is arranged on the output part when viewed from above.

[0044] A ramp or a ramp system is preferably arranged on the input part as well as on the output part, with those ramps facing each other.

[0045] In a preferred embodiment, the position of the torque sensor and/or the position of the transmitting element or elements is basically clearly determined with regard to the ramp system in a given position of the disk sets of a continuously variable transmission. In a particularly preferred embodiment, the transmitting element, or elements, always takes on the same position in the radial direction and/or with regard to the respective paths with equal and/or reproduced gear ratios of the continuously variable transmission, particularly independent of its sense of rotation.

[0046] The input part, and/or the output part, of the torque sensor is preferably designed as one piece.

[0047] In the preferred embodiments of the invention where it was mentioned that proportionality exists, the proportionality factor is smaller than 1 or equal to 1 or larger than 1.

[0048] In a particularly preferred embodiment a safety factor that offers additional safety that sufficient pressing force is always available is used. That safety factor can be an absolute increase, possibly in addition to the proportionality factor, or be taken into consideration in the proportionality factor, e.g. as a percentage increase.

[0049] In a particularly preferred embodiment those ramps of the torque sensor are designed in such a way that on one hand they extend at least also in the radial direction of the torque sensor and that on the other hand at least one of those paths has a slope so that the output part is shifted axially relative to the input part when the transmitting element changes its position on the path and/or ramp.

[0050] It should be noted that a path and/or a ramp in accordance with the present invention should be interpreted particularly as an area of the input part and/or an area of the output part of the torque sensor or a ramp system which can support one or several transmitting elements and through which those transmitting elements can possibly be exposed to load, wherein that path and/or ramp can have a profiled or non-profiled design and have a slope or not.

[0051] The path or ramp may possibly have the design of a profile recess, wherein in a preferred embodiment a transmitting element can travel along that ramp and/or path. The term path and/or ramp in accordance with the invention however should be interpreted in a broader sense so that a path includes a linear expansion or no linear expansion. A path should be particularly interpreted as a channel-like area, which is equipped with a triangular or rounded or rectangular or otherwise designed cross-sectional area or a fastening device for holding a transmitting element. A preferred embodiment furthermore consists of a design where a transmitting element in the shape of a ball is fastened to the input part or on the output part in a sort of fastening cage, which is also described as a path and/or ramp, and where the other one of those parts contains a longitudinally extending path, e.g. a path that is designed as a profiled recess, along which that transmitting element can travel. In accordance with the invention the term “path” is also used in the sense of a travel path and/or travel line, particularly with regard to the transmitting element.

[0052] In accordance with the present invention in particular a path is a ramp and/or a ramp is a path, wherein the term path and/or ramp relates particularly to a path and/or ramp that is arranged on the input part or on the output part.

[0053] A ramp in accordance with the present invention should particularly also be understood as a ramp in the classic sense, which contains along its lengthwise direction an ascent or slope that can be constant or vary along the lengthwise direction. In a particularly preferred embodiment, a torque sensor in accordance with the invention is equipped with a ramp that has a largely constant slope in the lengthwise direction.

[0054] The paths and/or ramps that are arranged on the input part can have the same design or different designs compared those that are arranged on the output part.

[0055] The task is furthermore resolved with a continuously variable transmission in accordance with claim 34.

[0056] In accordance with the present invention a continuously variable transmission should be interpreted particularly as a belt wrap transmission, where torque is transmitted through an endless, torque-transmitting means, such as a chain or strap or similar. That continuously variable transmission preferably contains at least some of the following features: A preferred continuously variable transmission is equipped with an input disk set as well as an output disk set. Those disk sets are each equipped with two disks, which can be moved relative to each other, especially in the axial direction, so that their distance can be changed. In particular, the respective disks of a disk set are designed as conical disks, which face each other at their tapered ends. In a preferred embodiment, torque is transmitted between those disk sets through frictional engagement between the respective disk set and the belt wrap device. In a particularly preferred embodiment torque is transmitted through a plate-link chain, wherein the plate-link chain contains chain links that are connected with each other through articulated devices. The articulated devices are preferably designed in such a way that two movable pieces that are allocated to each other as well as to the same articulated device roll off or away onto each other around that articulated device during a swivel movement of the neighboring chain links. At least one of those movable pieces preferably extends sideways beyond the sprocket configurations and can find support from the disks and/or conical disks of the respective disk sets through frictional engagement so that torque is transmitted between the respective conical disk sets and the plate-link chain via the movable pieces, which in particular mesh with the rocker members of the plate-link chain in a positive lock. The movable pieces may be rounded or tapered or designed otherwise at their ends for that purpose. Within each chain link several rocker members are arranged, which are aligned parallel to each other or at an angle to each other or otherwise. The rocker members within a chain link can be identical or have different designs. The rocker members of different chain links can be identical or have different designs. Different chain links have identical or differing partitions.

[0057] In accordance with the invention, particularly a torque sensor for a continuously variable transmission is provided, which can transmit torque in a frictionally-engaged manner. For the purpose of frictionally engaged torque transmission via the continuously variable transmission a pressing force is required that depends on the adjusted gear ratio as well as the torque that is applied and thus has a gear-ratio dependent and a torque-dependent portion. The torque sensor generates a pressing force, which contains a power portion that is proportional to the gear-ratio dependent and/or to the torque-dependent portion of the required pressing force.

[0058] Applying load to the disks and/or conical disks that are allocated to a disk set, respectively, causes the friction force between the plate-link chain and the respective disks to be sufficient for the respectively desired torque transmission. The forces acting, particularly axially, on the respective disks of a disk set are preferably controlled as a function of the torque that is supposed to be transmitted and/or the adjusted gear ratio, particularly with regard to each individual disk set. In particular, on different disk sets different forces act in the axial direction onto the disks of the disk sets.

[0059] The different disk sets are preferably assigned separate torque sensors. One torque sensor may possibly be allocated to several disk sets, wherein transmitting devices are preferably incorporated in the transmitting section between the torque sensor and the respective disk sets, which in that case can be differently configured and can be controlled.

[0060] In a preferred embodiment, a disk set of the continuously variable transmission is allocated a torque sensor, which controls the pressing force on that disk set, while on the other disk set the pressing force is controlled in a different manner, e.g. through a spindle or similar device.

[0061] The continuously variable transmission can also have a different design.

[0062] In a particularly preferred embodiment, the torque sensor has the design of a mechanical torque sensor. In a particularly preferred embodiment, load is applied onto the disk set through the torque sensor via mechanical components, which interact with each other without providing a pressure fluid in the transmitting section.

[0063] The task is furthermore resolved through a continuously variable transmission in accordance with claim 37.

[0064] In accordance with the invention, particularly a continuously variable transmission is equipped with at least one torque sensor as well as with a device that ensures that the power transmission between an input part and an output part of the torque sensor takes place basically in the radial position that corresponds to the travel radius of an endless, torque-transmitting means, which is incorporated on the disk set that is allocated to that torque sensor. That power transmission is effected especially through a transmitting device, such as a ball or similar.

[0065] The task is furthermore resolved through a method in accordance with claim 39.

[0066] The invention particularly provides for the fact that a signal, which indicates that the gear ratio of the continuously variable transmission should be changed, is generated for the purpose of controlling a torque sensor or controlling a continuously variable transmission with torque sensor under defined circumstances. The gear ratio of that continuously variable transmission is changed as a function of that signal, particularly by changing the respective axial distances of the disks, which are allocated to the respective disk sets of that transmission. In particular, that causes the radial position of an endless, torque-transmitting means, which extends around the disk sets, to be changed as a function of the slope of the respective disks. In accordance with the invention it is ensured that a transmitting element, which can transmit power and/or torque between an input part and an output part of a torque sensor, is arranged, respectively, in the radial position, in which the belt wrap device is arranged on one of those disk sets. That disk set is especially a disk set that is allocated to the appropriate torque sensor.

[0067] Preferably one torque sensor is allocated to each of the disk sets of the continuously variable transmission, wherein with an appropriate adjustment of those disk sets it is ensured that a transmitting element of the respective torque sensor is held in the radial position, in which the belt wrap device extends around the allocated disk set.

[0068] The task is furthermore resolved through a method for controlling a torque sensor in accordance with claim 40.

[0069] In accordance with the present invention, the term “controlling” should be interpreted particularly as “regulating” and/or “controlling” pursuant to DIN (German Industry Standard). The same applies to terms deduced from the term “controlling.”

[0070] The patent claims that have been submitted with the application are formulation suggestions without precedence for the purpose of obtaining broader patent protection. The applicant reserves the right to claim additional feature combinations that have so far only been revealed in the description and/or drawings.

[0071] References employed in dependent claims point to a further expansion of the object of the main claim through the features of the respective sub-claim; they should not be interpreted as a waiver of obtaining independent protection of the object for feature combinations of the dependent claims to which reference is made.

[0072] Since the objects of the dependent claims can form autonomous and independent inventions on the priority date with regard to the state of the art, the applicant reserves the right to make them the object of independent claims or partial declarations. Furthermore they may contain autonomous inventions, which have a design that is independent from the objects of the previous dependent claims.

[0073] The examples should not be interpreted as a limitation of the invention. Within the framework of the present disclosure rather numerous alterations and modifications are possible, in particular such variations, elements and combinations and/or materials, which can be deduced by the expert with regard to a solution to the task e.g. through a combination or modification of individual features and/or elements or procedural steps in connection with those described in the general description and embodiments as well as in the claims and those contained in the drawings and which lead to a new object or new procedural steps and/or procedural step sequences through features that can be combined, also to the extent that they relate to manufacturing, testing and processing methods.

[0074] The following explains the invention and/or the aspects of the invention more closely based on the figures, which is not meant to limit the invention.

[0075] They show:

[0076]FIG. 1 an exemplary embodiment of the invention in partial diagrammatic view;

[0077]FIG. 2 a sectional view along the line 2-2 of FIG. 1;

[0078]FIG. 3 an exemplary embodiment of the invention in partial diagrammatic view;

[0079]FIG. 4 a sectional view along the line 4-4 of FIG. 3;

[0080]FIG. 5 a sectional view along the line 5-5 of FIG. 3;

[0081]FIG. 6 an exemplary embodiment of the invention in partial diagrammatic view;

[0082]FIG. 7 an exemplary embodiment of the invention in partial diagrammatic view;

[0083]FIG. 8 a sectional view along the line 8-8 of FIG. 7;

[0084]FIG. 9 an exemplary embodiment of the invention in partial diagrammatic view;

[0085]FIG. 10 an exemplary embodiment of the invention in partial diagrammatic view;

[0086]FIG. 11 an exemplary embodiment of the invention in partial diagrammatic view.

[0087]FIG. 1 shows an exemplary embodiment of the invention in partial view.

[0088]FIG. 1 in particular shows a continuously variable transmission 1 with a torque sensor 10.

[0089] The continuously variable transmission is equipped with disk sets 12, of which one is shown in a partial view in FIG. 1. The disk set 12 is equipped with a first conical disk 14 as well as a second conical disk 16. Those conical disks 14, 16

[0090] The first conical disk 14 as well as the second conical disk 16 extend concentrically around the axis of a shaft 18. The shaft 18 is connected with the second conical disk 16 in an axially fixed as well as stationary manner. The first conical disk 14 is arranged on the shaft 18 in a stationary and axially movable manner. A plate-link chain 20 extends around the disk sets 12, whose conical disks 14, 16 are arranged so they can move in the axial direction relative to each other and/or can slide with regard to each other. The plate-link chain 20 is equipped with a variety of rocker members 22, which extend—not shown in FIG. 1—between articulated devices, respectively.

[0091] In order to effect the axial movability of the first conical disk 14 compared to the shaft 18 and/or the second conical disk 16 on one hand and the stationary characteristic on the other hand, suitable bearing devices 24 are provided between the first conical disk 14 and the shaft 18, such as a keyway or similar.

[0092] The torque sensor 10 is equipped with an input part 26 as well as an output part 28, which are arranged concentrically to the shaft 18, respectively. The input part 26 and the output part 28 may each have a disk-shaped design.

[0093] The output part 28 is arranged in a stationary manner, and possibly in a fixed manner in the axial direction, with regard to the first conical disk 14 and may be firmly connected with it. In particular, the output part 28 is designed as one piece with the first conical disk 14.

[0094] The input part 26 is arranged in a rotating manner relative to the output part 28, with regard to the axis 29 of the shaft 18. For that purpose, suitable bearing devices 30 may be provided between the input part 26 and the shaft 18.

[0095] A first path and/or ramp 32 is incorporated on the input part 26, and a second path and/or ramp 34 is incorporated on the output part 28. Those ramps 32, 34 face each other, from an axial direction point of view. If necessary, the first ramp 32 is a configuration of several ramps and the second ramp 34 is also a configuration of several ramps. Those ramps 32, 34 extend particularly in the radial direction as well as the circumferential direction with regard to the input part 26 and/or the output part 28.

[0096] It should be noted that, even if that is not mentioned specifically, the first ramp 32 and/or the second ramp 34 should be interpreted particularly as a configuration of paths and ramps in accordance with the present invention in the above-mentioned sense or as an individual ramp.

[0097] An expansion and/or transmitting element is the design of a ball 36 that is arranged between the first path 32 and the second path 34. Also with regard to that transmitting element it should be noted that in accordance with the present invention, even if it is not pointed out specifically, that should be interpreted as such that a plurality of transmitting elements are provided, wherein it is particularly preferred that those respective transmitting elements are allocated to an individual first ramp 32 as well as an individual second ramp 34, respectively.

[0098] Power or torque can be transmitted between the first ramp 32 and the second ramp 34 via those balls 36. In particular, a relative rotation of the input part 26 compared to the output part 28 and/or of the first ramp 32 compared to the second ramp 34 causes the axial distance of the first ramp 32 to the second ramp 34 and/or between the input part 26 and the output part 28 to change.

[0099] In accordance with the invention, a particular feature includes that the input part 26 and/or the first ramp 32 is arranged in an axially fixed manner so that a change of the axial distance between the input part 26 and the output part 28 simultaneously causes the axial distance between the output part 28 and the second conical disk 16 to change.

[0100] The ball 36 is arranged in a movable manner in the radial direction, as indicated by the arrow 38. The ability of that ball 36 to move is particularly determined by the design of the first path 32 as well as the second path 34.

[0101] The travel path and/or the degrees of freedom of the ball 36 are designed so as to allow that ball 36 to only move in the radial direction with regard to the shaft 18 or so as to arrange that ball 36 in a movable manner both in the radial and in the circumferential direction with regard to the shaft 18.

[0102] The radial position of the ball 36 with regard to the shaft 18, which is indicated by the arrow 40, always corresponds to the radial position and/or the travel radius of the plate-link chain 20, which is indicated by the arrow 42. In accordance with the invention a feature in particular regulates the fact that those radii 40, 42 are always identical. That type of control is preferably effected by the design of the first path 32 as well as the second path 34 and/or the interaction of those ramps 32, 34 with the ball 36.

[0103]FIG. 2 depicts a sectional view along the line 2-2 of FIG. 1.

[0104]FIG. 2 especially shows that the first path 32 is equipped with a recess 50 and/or has the design of a recess 50 on the input part 26, and that the second path 34 is equipped with a recess 52 and/or has the design of a recess 52 on the output part 28.

[0105] In FIG. 2 the recess 50 as well as the recess 52 are each designed like beaks so that the recess 50 contains a first surface 54, which is arranged diagonally opposite a first surface 56 of the recess 52, and that the first recess 50 contains a second surface 58, which is arranged diagonally opposite a second surface 60 of the second recess 52. The first surface 54 encloses an angle with the second surface 58, and the first surface 56 encloses an angle with the second surface 60.

[0106] Those angles can basically have any random design and range in a particularly preferred embodiment between 30° and 60°.

[0107] When a peripheral force is applied on the input part 26, as indicated by the arrow 62, it causes also at least a force in the axial direction to be applied to the output part 28, as indicated by the arrow 64.

[0108]FIG. 3 depicts a presentation of an embodiment in accordance with the invention that corresponds largely to the presentation shown in FIG. 1.

[0109] The presentation shown in FIG. 3 differs from the presentation in accordance with FIG. 1 particularly in that—as indicated by the dotted lines 70, 72—the slope of the ramps is shown along their lengthwise direction and/or in the radial direction, wherein that slope is constant especially along the respective ramps.

[0110] A first ramp 32, whose slope has such a design that it increases radially outward, especially at a constant level, is provided on the input part 26. The radially outward area of that first ramp 32 is thus arranged closer to the output part 28—in the axial direction—than the radially inward area of that first ramp 32.

[0111] Accordingly the slope of the second ramp 34 increases with increasing radius of the ramp position.

[0112] The sectional view along the line 2-2 of FIG. 3 basically corresponds to the sectional view along the line 2-2 of FIG. 1, which is shown in FIG. 2.

[0113]FIG. 3 shows a sectional view along the line 4-4 of FIG. 3.

[0114] In FIG. 4 especially a view of the input part 26 from the point of view of the ball 36 is shown, in a partial view.

[0115]FIG. 4 shows particularly the first ramp 32, which extends from the radially central area 80 of the input part 26—from a top view—counterclockwise radially outward in a spiral shape. The first path 32 here has a left-curved design when following it radially outward from the radially interior area 80. The bending radii, which are partially indicated by the arrows 82, 84, do not have a constant design. It should be noted, however, that in accordance with the invention it is also preferred that those bending radii have a constant design.

[0116]FIG. 5 shows a sectional view along the line 5-5 of FIG. 3.

[0117]FIG. 5 depicts especially a top view of the output part 28 of the torque sensor 10 from the point of view of the ball 36.

[0118]FIG. 5 shows that the ramp 34 of the output part 28 extends radially outward from the radially interior area 90 in a curved and/or spiral shape; it does so clockwise, from a top view. The bending radii, which are indicated by the arrows 92, 94, have different designs along the ramp 34. It should be noted that in accordance with the invention it is also preferred that those bending radii have the same design. The path extends with a left curve, when viewing it from the top from the central area outward.

[0119] It should be noted that the ramps 32, 34 shown in FIG. 4 and FIG. 5, respectively, can also be right-curved or be both right- and left-curved. The ramps shown in FIG. 4 and FIG. 5 can have the same design or different designs.

[0120]FIG. 6 depicts a partially shown torque sensor.

[0121]FIG. 6 especially shows an input part 26 with a first ramp 32 as well as an output part 28 with a second ramp 34, wherein a ball 36 functioning as the transmitting element is arranged between those ramps 32, 34.

[0122] The design of the parts 26, 28 and/or the ramps 32, 34 corresponds basically to the design that was explained with the help of FIG. 4 and 5.

[0123]FIG. 6 clarifies that torque applied to the input part 26, indicated by the arrow 100, causes the ball 36 to be moved radially outward. The line pairs 102-104 and 106-108 indicate in which position the ball 36 is arranged on the respective paths 32, 34 with an appropriate rotation, which is allocated to those positions, of the input part 26 compared to the output part 28. That clarifies that the ball is moved in the radial direction upon a relative rotation of the parts 26, 28. The radius, respectively, at which the ball is arranged, corresponds basically to the length of the lines 102, 104, 106, 108, which are shown as examples in FIG. 6. It should be noted that the radial movement is determined not only by the lines shown in FIG. 6, but can be infinitely variable.

[0124]FIG. 6 shows that the ramps 32 and 34, which, as shown in FIG. 4 and 5, have the same design from a top view, extends in differing directions from the ball 36 when they face each other.

[0125]FIG. 7 shows an exemplary embodiment of the invention in partial view.

[0126]FIG. 7 especially depicts several first ramps 32, which are arranged on the input part 26 and have an identical outline and/or identical course. Those first ramps 32 are arranged offset from each other in the circumferential direction of the input part 26. In particular, the angle that is enclosed by two neighboring first ramps 32, respectively, in the circumferential direction is identical. FIG. 7 shows four first ramps 32 so that the angle between the respectively neighboring ramps 32 is 90°.

[0127] A number of first ramps 32 deviating from that as well as deviating angle conditions are also preferred in accordance with the invention.

[0128] Each ramp 32 is allocated a second ramp 34—not shown in FIG. 7—which is arranged on the output part 28, which is also not shown.

[0129] Each of those ramps 32 is allocated a ball 36, which can travel along those respective ramps 32.

[0130] The different balls 36 are connected with each other via a cage 120. That cage 120 is equipped with an outer ring 122, which is connected with an inner ring 128 of that cage 120 via braces 124, 126. The outer ring 122 of the cage 120 is arranged basically concentrically to the inner ring 128 of the cage 120.

[0131] The braces 124, 126 are arranged in pairs basically parallel to each other, run in the radial direction and contain a profile, which is not shown in FIG. 7.

[0132] The areas of the pairs of braces 124, 126 that face each other serve as guide surfaces for the balls 36 so that those balls 36 are guided both by the ramps 32 and, in the radial direction, by the pairs of braces 124, 126. That ensures that the different balls 36 are always arranged in the same position, in the radial direction.

[0133] The number of pairs of braces 124, 126 and/or the number of gaps 130, which in particular have a groove-like design, provided between those braces 124, 126 preferably corresponds to the number of first ramps 32 so that each first ramp 32 is allocated a gap 130.

[0134]FIG. 8 shows a sectional view along the line 8-8 of FIG. 7.

[0135]FIG. 8 clarifies that the braces 124, 126 are connected with each other through plate-like areas 140, 142.

[0136] Those plate-like areas can possibly be foregone, and the cage-like guide element can have a different design.

[0137]FIG. 9 shows an exemplary embodiment of the invention in a diagrammatic, partial view.

[0138]FIG. 10 shows especially an input part 26 of a torque sensor with first ramps 32 and/or an output part 28 with second ramps 34.

[0139] In FIG. 10, six ramps 32 are depicted, which each enclose an identical (60°) angle with the respectively neighboring ramps 32. The number of ramps 32 as well as the angles between neighboring ramps 32 can differ as well.

[0140] Each ramp 32 is allocated a ball 36, which can transmit power and/or torque to the respective other part, i.e. the output part 28 and/or the input part 26. The ramps 32 have a slope that increases from radially outward to radially inward. The ramps 32 have a trough-like design and are equipped with tapers.

[0141]FIG. 10 shows an exemplary embodiment of the invention in a diagrammatic partial view.

[0142] In FIG. 10, especially the input part 26 is shown in accordance with FIG. 10 with first ramps 32, as is an output part 28 that is allocated to that input part 26. The output part 28 is equipped with second ramps 34, wherein each individual first ramp 32 is allocated a second ramp 34.

[0143]FIG. 11 shows the progression of an example of the method in accordance with the invention.

[0144] In Step 150, a signal is generated, which indicates that the gear ratio of a continuously variable transmission is supposed to be changed.

[0145] In Step 152, the gear ratio of that continuously variable transmission is changed by modifying the respective axial distances of the disks in the respective disk sets of that continuously variable transmission. For that purpose, the belt wrap device of that continuously variable transmission is moved to different travel radii on the respective disk sets.

[0146] Step 154 ensures that the transmitting elements and/or the balls, which are arranged between an input part and an output part of a torque sensor, are moved to the radius that corresponds to the travel radius of the belt wrap device on the disk set that is allocated to that torque sensor.

[0147] Step 154 may be performed parallel to step 152.

[0148] The claims included in the application are illustrative and are without prejudice to acquiring wider patent protection. The applicant reserves the right to claim additional combinations of features disclosed in the specification and/or drawings.

[0149] The references contained in the dependent claims point to further developments of the object of the main claim by means of the features of the particular claim; they are not to be construed as renunciation to independent, objective protection for the combinations of features of the related dependent claims.

[0150] Although the subject matter of the dependent claims can constitute separate and independent inventions in the light of the state of the art on the priority date, the applicants reserve the right to make them the subject of independent claims or separate statements. They can, moreover, also embody independent inventions that can be produced from the independent developments of the subject matter of the included dependent claims.

[0151] The exemplary embodiments are not to be considered to be limitations of the invention. On the contrary, many changes and variations are possible within the scope of the invention in the existing disclosure, in particular such variants, elements, and combinations and/or materials which, for example, are inventive by combining or modifying single features that are in combination and are described individually in relation to the general specification and embodiments as well as the claims and shown in the drawings, as well as elements or method steps that can be derived by a person skilled in the art in the light of the disclosed solutions of the problem, and which by means of combined features lead to a new object or new method steps or sequences of method steps, as well as manufacturing, testing and operational procedures. 

What is claimed is:
 1. A torque sensor for sensing a torque demand in a power transmission system and for generating a torque-demand-dependent pressing force on a torque-transmitting member, said torque sensor comprising: at least one torque-demand-receiving input member and at least one torque output member; a torque-transmitting member disposed between the at least one input member and the at least one output member, wherein the torque-transmitting member is adapted to receive a pressing force from the output member to transmit power between the input and the output members, and at least one power transmitting element positioned between the input member and the output member and movable radially relative to an axis of rotation about which the input and output members can rotate.
 2. A continuously variable transmission, said transmission comprising: a first set of coaxial conical disks adapted for relative axial movement to vary the axial spacing between the first disks; a second set of conical disks adapted for relative axial movement to vary the axial spacing between the second disks, wherein the second set of disks is spaced from and opposite to the first set of disks so an axial space between the first set of disks is radially opposite from an axial space between the second set of disks; a power transmission belt positioned to engage and to pass between the first and second sets of disks to transmit torque therebetween; and a torque sensor for sensing a torque demand in a power transmission system and for generating a torque-demand-dependent pressing force on a torque-transmitting member, said torque sensor including: at least one torque-demand-receiving input member and at least one torque output member; a torque-transmitting member disposed between the at least one input member and the at least one output member, wherein the torque-transmitting member is adapted to receive a pressing force from the output member to transmit power between the input and the output members, and at least one power transmitting element positioned between the input member and the output member and movable radially relative to an axis of rotation about which the input and output members can rotate.
 3. A method for controlling a torque sensor carried by a continuously variable transmission, said method comprising the steps of: generating a signal indicative that the gear ratio of the continuously variable transmission is to be changed; changing the gear ratio of the continuously variable transmission by changing axial distances between respective pairs of axially-movable conical disks, between each of which an endless, torque-transmitting means passes to transmit torque between the sets of disks to shift the radial position of the torque-transmitting means within each set of disks; and providing at least one power transmitting element between an input part of a torque sensor carried by the transmission and an output part of the torque sensor, wherein the power transmitting element is movable radially relative to the torque sensor axis for transmitting torque between the torque sensor input and output members. 